Botox: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

We’re sure that by this point in your lovely journey of skincare, you’ve at least heard mention of Botox as a means to treat and eliminate wrinkles. But what is Botox exactly? Do you know what’s in those syringes being inserted into the faces of millions of women in America?

What is Botox?

Botox is short for Botulism toxin A, which is a purified version of botulism—the deadliest toxin in the world. Being, however, that it is purified there is no risk of infection. So, relax knowing that there is nothing life-threatening about this treatment.

The toxin works by blocking nerves that contract muscles, resulting in the softened appearance of wrinkles.

What are the benefits of Botox?

There are many benefits to the injection treatment. Are the benefits worth the cost?

Temporary treatment

If you are new to Botox, you can ask your doctor for a smaller dose of the toxin to see how you like it, and if it is right for you. Your skin isn’t altered in any way and the effects wear off over a period of about four to six months. This gives you the comfort of knowing if you don’t like it, there’s no need to worry. You’ve not signed a permanent contract for anything.

Quick results

The injection is designed to produce quick results. Depending on the potency of your injection, you may see results within a few hours to a few days, but the freezing effects of the toxin are very speedy.

Wipe that frown off your face

Botox injections have been shown to reduce and/or eliminate the appearance of expression lines on the face. These kinds of lines are where the toxin is proven to be the most effective, in wrinkles that haven’t quite “set” yet.

In and out in a flash

The nice thing about botox is there’s no need to check yourself into a clinic for any lengthy overnight procedure. The process of administering the toxin is relatively quick, lasting only five to ten minutes.

What are the cons of Botox?

While Botox may seem like the rose of cosmetic treatments, each one has its thorns. Consider the cons of the treatment before you walk into the office for your own.

Benefits are short-term

Funny as it is, the primary reason for getting the treatment is also its greatest con. To continue the results of the treatment you’ll have to get regular treatments, about every four to six months. Which, depending on the size of your wallet, could be pricey.

It’s pretty expensive

In case you’re not aware of this yet, your health insurance isn’t going to cover the cost of cosmetic procedures. That means, should you want to invest in the benefits of Botox, you’ll need to be able to pay it all up front out of your own pocket. The price tag could be anywhere from $300 to $400 per treatment, and figuring that out, that’s anywhere from $1200 to $1600 a year!

You need a professional

While they may be popular, Botox “parties” are dangerous and largely ineffective. When you decide to go with Botox, you need to schedule your treatment with a board-certified professional in a clinic in case of any bad reactions. In rare cases, the toxin has caused allergic reactions, mostly in patients who are taking antibiotics. So, before you schedule an appointment, be sure to notify your doctor about any medications or supplements you may be taking.

Just a little bruise

Sometimes, depending on the area treated and prior medication taken, there can be temporary bruising as a side-effect of the treatment. You can lessen your chances of this by foregoing any ibuprofen or aspirin. These medications thin the blood, which causes more bleeding at the injection site, in turn leading to more bruising.

So, what do you think? Do the pros outweigh the cons? Or are you considering alternative routes to wrinkle prevention? Whatever you decide, be smart! When you know what to expect, the chances of you being satisfied with your treatment are much higher.

Check out more botox alternatives at our SkinStore website here.

SkinStore Editors

Writer and expert

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